The following information was obtained from the March 27 issue of the Texas Register:
Public Notices
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) announced its intent to submit an amendment to the Texas State Plan for Medical Assistance, under Title XIX of the Social Security Act, which will modify the reimbursement methodology for clinical laboratory services in the Texas Medicaid State Plan as a result of Medicaid fee changes. HHSC also announced its intent to submit an amendment to the Texas State Plan for Medical Assistance under Title XIX of the Social Security Act, which would clarify telemedicine services in the Texas Medicaid State Plan.
Finally, HHSC announced the adoption of the following interim per diem reimbursement rate for small, state-operated Intermediate Care Facilities for Persons with Mental Retardation, including facilities operated by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services: $394.49. Follow this link for more information about all three entries.
Emergency Rules
The Texas Medical Board adopted an emergency amendment to Chapter 190, relating to Disciplinary Guidelines, §190.8, Violation Guidelines. The amendment adds an exception to the requirement in paragraph (1)(L) that a physician may only prescribe drugs to a person with whom a proper professional relationship has been established for the prescription of drugs for a partner of a patient who may have a sexually transmitted disease. See the relevant section of the Texas Register for details.
Withdrawn Rules
The Texas Medical Board withdraws the proposed amendment to §190.8, which appeared in the September 19, 2008, issue of the Texas Register (33 TexReg 7964). See the entry for more information.
Adopted Rules
HHSC adopted an amendment §2.253, new §2.274, and the repeal of §2.274 in Chapter 2, Mental Retardation Authority Responsibilities. Among other things, the changes describe the requirements for an MRA to conduct the community living options. See the relevant section of the Texas Register for more information.
